Man O’ War Gravestone 750mL

Man O War Gravestone is a refined blend of 70% Sauvignon Blanc and 30% Semillon from Waiheke Island, crafted for wine lovers who appreciate subtlety and balance over overt fruit intensity. This is a wine that rewards patience, revealing layers of complexity as it opens in the glass. Perfect for those seeking a sophisticated alternative to mainstream Marlborough styles, it brings a distinctly Waiheke character to the table.

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Hailing from one of Waiheke Island’s most respected estates, this wine comes from carefully selected hillside blocks where white varieties benefit from cooling sea breezes and volcanic soils. The Man O War vineyards span 60 hectares across 75 distinct blocks, each with unique mesoclimates that contribute to the wine’s distinctive regional expression. At 13.5% ABV, this blend strikes an elegant balance between fruit purity and structural finesse.

Nose: The aromatics are discreet and contemplative, opening with lemon blossom, white peach and elderflower alongside subtle notes of oyster shell and flinty minerality. You’ll also find green pepper, gooseberry, nettles and a hint of pickled jalapeño adding savoury intrigue. Some bottles reveal struck match complexity and lime pith that add textural interest.

Palate: Lean and racy on entry, this medium-bodied wine shows focused structure with tense acidity that drives clean citrus and tropical flavours across the palate. The Sauvignon Blanc dominates initially with grassy, lemony notes, but the Semillon weaves through beautifully, adding weight and depth. The texture is precise rather than generous, with fine fruit tannins providing clarity and persistence.

Finish: The wine closes with impressive length, carrying lemon citrus and herbal hints through to a taut, mineral-driven conclusion. There’s a lovely salinity here that echoes the oyster shell notes from the nose, leaving you ready for the next sip.

Pair this with freshly shucked oysters, seared scallops with butter and herbs, or simply prepared white fish with lemon and capers.

Serve well chilled at 8-10°C in a medium-sized white wine glass to allow the aromatics to develop gradually.

A thoughtful choice for wine enthusiasts who value regional character and restrained elegance over immediate fruit appeal.